Youth Dove Hunts on the Horizon

Posted on August 15, 2012

If there’s one type of hunting that nearly every youth can participate in—and enjoy—it is dove hunting. Along with lots of shotgunning experience, important talks with family and friends, and being a part of the popular pre- or post-hunt cookouts, dove hunts are simply great eye-openers into the world of hunting. Most of these hunts are the start of long hunting careers for many. Maybe that is why anti-hunting groups, like the Sierra Club and the Humane Society of the United States, are so opposed to dove hunting.

The good news is that most states will be hosting special hunts during the weeks ahead just for young hunters interested in hunting doves. Alabama will host several hunts through its STEP OUTSIDE program. Details, and pre-registration information are at: http://www.outdooralabama.com/hunting/youth-hunts/youthdove/

Tennessee’s Wildlife Resources Agency will host two youth dove hunts. The Maury County Youth Dove hunt gets underway at 11AM on Sept. 8. Another hunt at the Hiwassee Refuge WMA gets underway at noon on that date. More details are at: http://www.tn.gov/twra/youthdovehunts.html

Missouri will also have a dove hunt for youth on Sept. 1, and the full details are at: http://mdc.mo.gov/newsroom/discover-hunting-mdc-youth-dove-hunt-callaway-county

Texas, Louisiana, and other states across America, have special locations and dates set aside for youth dove hunts. Find these hunts and take advantage of them.

In nearly all events, pre-registration is required. Make plans now. Hunters must also have HIP (Harvest Information Program) cards or numbers, and in some cases these will need to be acquired before the hunt begins. You can often find these online. And all youth particpating in these hunts must be accompanied by an adult. Check with your state’s game department, or local sportsmen’s clubs, to learn more details.

Be safe afield and make this dove season’s opener one that many young hunters—both girls and boys— will remember for years to come. While many things in life escape memory over time, nearly everyone remembers the person who first took them hunting.

Share

Print

Discussion